A New Era Begins
When Collin Klein stepped onto the field as Kansas State’s new head coach, he brought more than a familiar name to the program; he brought a vision built on continuity and ambition. Having played quarterback for the Wildcats in the early 2000s, Klein knows the fabric of the university and the expectations of the fan base. His first season in 2026 is being framed as a turning point, with the coaching staff emphasizing stability while injecting fresh ideas into both sides of the ball.
At the heart of that vision is quarterback Avery Johnson, whose performance last season hinted at a breakout year. Under Klein’s guidance, Johnson is expected to rekindle the spark that made him a cornerstone of the offense. Complementing him will be tight end Linkon Cure, a former five‑star recruit who proved his worth as a sophomore and is now poised to become a primary target in the red zone.
Offensive Firepower
The receiving corps also welcomes Josh Manning, a transfer from Missouri who brings a blend of size and speed, while running back Dylan Edwards is slated to lead the backfield. The backfield intrigue extends to Dylan Villarouel and Oliver Miller, two young players whose development could add depth and versatility.
Defensive Reinforcements
Defensively, the Wildcats are counting on a surge of talent. Elijah Hill, who topped all FBS true freshmen in sacks last year, is being heralded as a potential every‑down player. Adding to the mix is Wendell Gregory, the reigning Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, who arrives from Oklahoma State and brings a knack for disrupting opposing offenses.
Strategic Schedule and Rivalry
One of the most strategic aspects of the 2026 schedule is the avoidance of three preseason Big 12 favorites — BYU, Texas Tech, and Utah. This opens a pathway for Kansas State to start the season with a series of winnable games, including a home matchup against Houston on October 10 that could serve as an early confidence builder.
The non‑conference slate also features a September 5 opener against Nicholls, followed by a home game against Cincinnati, a team that has historically posed a challenge. The Wildcats will not face consecutive road trips until October 24, allowing them to settle into a rhythm at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Moreover, the long‑awaited showdown with in‑state rival Kansas on October 17 marks the first opportunity to end a 0‑17 streak that has haunted the program for years.
Recruiting successes under Klein have also generated buzz. The offseason brought commitments that bolstered the depth chart, and fans are eager to see how the new additions will mesh with returning starters. The offensive line coach, who previously helped develop a potent rushing attack at San Diego State, is expected to bring a disciplined approach to the trenches. Beyond the field, the team’s travel schedule remains domestic, steering clear of the so‑called ‘Ireland curse’ that has plagued other programs.